How to Dress for Cold Weather When Playing Soccer

by
A. MCDOUGALL Last Updated: Sep 11, 2017

A. McDougall

A. McDougall is an editor, writer and athlete. McDougall is a marathon coach certified by the North American Academy for Sport Fitness Professionals and an American College of Sports Medicine certified personal trainer. McDougall has edited and written for several national magazines.

Two younger kids are playing soccer in long pants and shirts.Photo Credit Jack Hollingsworth/Photodisc/Getty Images

You might think of soccer as a summertime sport, but leagues can extend into the colder months. To play your best game, you need to stay warm, keeping your muscles loose and reducing the possibility of injury. The key to keeping warm is dressing for the cold weather.

Step 1

Wear a pair of compression pants or compression shorts and a compression shirt under your shorts and jersey. Compression clothing hugs your body, keeping it warm while wicking sweat away from your skin. According to the "Laws of the Game," undergarments worn under your jersey must match the color of your jersey and those worn under your shorts must match the color of your shorts.

Step 2

Wear your jersey and shorts over your compression clothing. According to the "Laws of the Game," you must wear shorts, not pants. If your team has long-sleeved jerseys, those are allowed.

Step 3

Wear gloves and a knit hat to keep your extremities warm.

Step 4

Bring an extra set of soccer socks to keep on the sidelines. Change into these socks during halftime if your feet have become wet.

Step 5

Wear track pants and a jacket while on the sidelines. If you are sitting on the bench, wear a blanket to keep yourself extra warm.

Things You'll Need

Compression pants or shorts

Compression shirt

Jersey

Shorts

Two pairs of soccer socks

Gloves

Knit beanie

Track pants

Track jacket

Blanket

Tips

Be aware that all clothing items must be inspected by the referee. Clothing can only be worn if the referee deems that it poses no risk to yourself or others on the field.